Kristi Dorman Embraces Professional Pickleball: At 55, Kristi Dorman is redefining what it means to be a rookie in professional sports. After being drafted in May by the Indianapolis Drivers, one of the elite teams in the National Pickleball League, Dorman dove headfirst into her first season as a pro player.
Embracing the Pro Experience
With the 2024 season concluding in September, Dorman prepares for one of the sport’s most significant stages: the Professional Pickleball League’s Championship Weekend in Cincinnati, Ohio. Reflecting on her journey, she shares her enthusiasm for the experience.
“Oh, gosh, it’s been a great experience. I can’t believe we’ve already completed five months, and going into our sixth month, it’s been a kind of a whirlwind, but it’s been great.” – (dorman)
A former NCAA Division I tennis player at Ball State University, Dorman notes that adapting to the team aspect of pickleball has been a significant shift.
“If you’re not playing, you’re cheering on your fellow teammates. And so I think that team aspect, for me, has been really great and something special to be a part of, because in tournament play, you know, it’s just you and your partner out there.” – (dorman)
Overcoming Self-Doubt
After being drafted by the Drivers, Dorman grappled with self-doubt regarding her ability to compete among professionals.
“I don’t think I had much confidence in myself. I wasn’t quite sure how I could stack up with a field of 150 pro players. I had only played in two pro tournaments prior to the draft, so I feel like it’s definitely been eye-opening.” – (dorman)
Despite her struggles, she finds the competition exhilarating.
“I’ve lost some pretty close matches this year to some of the best women and mixed teams in the league. So it’s definitely challenging, which I love. I feel like we, as a team, our confidence is getting better and better each month.” – (dorman)
Dorman remains optimistic, even as the Drivers finish the season at 6-14.
“My confidence has improved, and I feel like I can play with the best of them.” – (dorman)
Becoming a Professional
Dorman recognizes that competing at a higher level requires adjustments in her approach.
“I think the higher you go up in competitive play, you can’t just rely on your athleticism. You’re playing against players that can really hit any shot.” – (dorman)
She emphasizes the need for strategy over raw power.
“I have to be more strategic with what I do with the ball, as opposed to just going out and hitting. You can’t just bang with the better players. You can’t. You have to be very strategic. So I’m hoping I get better with that.” – (dorman)
“I’m doing some visualization work and trying to work more on strategy.” – (dorman)
Preparing for Championship Weekend
As the championship weekend approaches from October 17-20, Dorman focuses on drills rather than matches.
“I probably am drilling a lot more than I did, and I’m reading more about the game and studying the game more.” – (dorman)
The ability to review her matches online has been a valuable resource.
“I can go back and watch my play, which is something I had never done before.” – (dorman)
Transitioning from tennis to pickleball has its challenges.
“You have to kind of tighten up your tennis game. Pickleball is very compact, so once you figure that out, that you can’t just bang all day.” – (dorman)
With a sense of hope, Dorman looks forward to the championship weekend.
“Actually, I’m quite hopeful. We beat Columbus, and then they’re ranked number two going into the championship. So we’ve had some really good wins, and hopefully we will have our full team in Cincinnati. I think we can hopefully surprise some people.” – (dorman)
A Life-Changing Journey
Dorman expresses gratitude for the competitive atmosphere she’s encountered this year. “Had you told me I would be competing at age 55 at a high level in any sport, I would not have believed it,” she said, reflecting on the transformative nature of her experience.
“I’ve met so many amazing people along the way. It’s a game that is accessible to so many. … It’s a lot of fun.” – (dorman)
Looking ahead to the offseason, she anticipates returning to teaching pickleball.
“I really enjoy teaching. I love introducing the sport to beginners.” – (dorman)
However, where she will play next season remains uncertain, as teams in the National Pickleball League re-draft their rosters annually.
“I’m just very grateful that I’ve had this opportunity and really look forward to the championships. I would encourage everyone to get out on the pickleball court and play pickleball.” – (dorman)
News in Brief: Kristi Dorman Embraces Professional Pickleball
Kristi Dorman, a 55-year-old rookie pickleball player, finishes her first season with the Indianapolis Drivers in the National Pickleball League. Drafted in May, she prepares for the Professional Pickleball League’s Championship Weekend in Cincinnati, Ohio, from October 17-20.
Despite a tough season with a 6-14 record, Dorman expresses growing confidence and enjoyment in the team aspect of the game. She emphasizes the importance of strategy and mental preparation at the pro level and looks forward to returning to teaching pickleball in the off-season while remaining grateful for her competitive journey.
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